Five Fall Date Ideas You'll Both Love

Few times of year are more romantic than the fall, when the weather becomes more crisp and cold—inevitably creating more opportunities for close cuddles—and the foliage serves as a stunning backdrop for beautiful photos. There are also endless opportunities for activities, both indoor and outdoor, during this time of year; that's why we think it's one of the most fun seasons for unique, inventive date ideas. To that end, we asked New York-based relationship and etiquette expert April Masini to share her top recommendations for fall dates. Whether you're a new couple or one who's been married for years, these ideas are sure to inspire some seasonal bonding.

Visit the pumpkin patch.

Indulge in the season's fun activities, like heading to your local pumpkin patch for a romantic stroll, an adorable pic for your Instagram, and to grab a few gourds to bring home to carve. "Some patches even have a mini-carnival feel with petting zoos, bazaars selling fall items, and scarecrows with hay bales," says Masini. She suggests picking one that best suits your personalities—quiet and basic or loud and colorful. "This can be the whole date, or the prelude to dinner where you roast the pumpkin seeds and eat them while they're hot and seasoned with a glass of crisp wine!"

Go apple picking.

If you're lucky enough to live within driving distance of apple orchards, Masini suggests taking advantage of the opportunity to pick fresh apples. "This is a really fun date that only happens in the fall when the apples are in season," she says. "Enjoy the brisk, outdoor activity, and then take the apples home and make fresh applesauce, apple pie, candied or caramel apples, or some other wonderful apple treat."

Break in your fireplace.

If you're lucky enough to have a fireplace, there's no reason not to spark it up. "Get your chimney swept first for safety, know how to open the flue, buy some fresh logs, and get the heat going," says Masini. "This is a wonderful way to start the romantic season that is fall." She recommends making it even more memorable by roasting marshmallows or making s'mores. Don't have a fireplace? Look up local bars nearby that have fireplaces instead.

Go camping.

Fall is the perfect weather for camping, since it's not yet too cold, but also not as hot and humid as summer. "The chilly weather, the fall walks, fishing, setting up tents, sleeping bags, and cuddling by the campfire are wonderful experiences and memory builders for you and your date—and your future together," says Masini. Not a big fan of camping in tents? Try glamping or renting a cabin in the woods.

Head to a football game.

You and your date don't have to be diehard fans to enjoy one of America's most beloved sports. Masini suggests getting tickets, bundling up with a good blanket, ordering your favorite hot drink, and getting into the spirit of the game and the fall season. "If you can get NFL tickets, you'll have a great experience but if you can't, look for local colleges with football teams and check their schedules," she says.